Father’s Day, Martini Day, and the first day of craft spirits week… a triple threat for sure! We decided to craft a vesper martini, James Bond’s preferred martini, using local craft gin and vodka both made here in North Carolina. After some research we discovered that this Cocchi Americano is the best substitute for the Kani Lillet which is no longer produced but was the original vermouth for this martini. While bitters are not always used in a vesper we decided the bright orange flavor of our Orange bitters would suit this cocktail nicely. Overall this cocktail is smooth with notes of baking spices and citrus and features a classically dry finish. I dare say even martini haters couldn’t find it in their herts to dislike this drink.

Young Hearts distilling is nearby us in Raleigh, NC where they have taken over the old busy bee location and have been churning out some delicious spirits including this formidable gin. End of Days distillery is from our old stomping grounds, Wilmington, NC, where they make this small batch Port of Entry Vodka among other spirits. Whatever is in your glass today we would like to raise our glass to father’s everywhere and the craft distillers who make delicious spirits for us to enjoy!